It is common that when people hear the word “4-H,” they often think of the fair. This is not a bad thing as the fair is a celebration of what youth in the 4-H program have learned in the last year. It is also a common misconception that youth have to live on a farm or own an animal to be in 4-H. It is simply not true. 4-H is for any youth currently in grades K-12. When I visit the schools and talk to the kids about joining 4-H, I talk about the endless opportunities that are available to them in the 4-H program.
These opportunities include taking part in short-term, fun, hands-on learning experiences. One example of this is the recent Coding Club that took place during Fall Break for youth in grades 3-5. During this time, youth learned basic video game coding concepts by making different types of games, including racing, platform, and launching. They were able to express their creativity and make each of their games unique. They learned problem-solving by not only creating their games but also have other youth in the club test out and play their games.
The Indiana 4-H mission is “to provide real-life educational opportunities that develop young people who will have a positive impact in their communities and the world.” So how do we do it? Through hands-on learning opportunities and more importantly, by providing youth with a safe place to fail. If you think back on your life, there are probably moments when you learned more through failing than you would have through succeeding. 4-H provides that space but it also provides caring adults that help teach, encourage, and cheer on our youth as they learn and grow.
4-H enrollment started Oct. 1 and there is still time to enroll. Don’t delay in joining such a great youth development program that provides youth with the life skills that they need to make a difference. To enroll in Montgomery County 4-H, visit https://v2.4honline.com or visit the Montgomery County Extension office at 400 Parke Ave., Crawfordsville. The program fee for enrolling in 4-H is $15 per child and mini 4-H (grades K-2) is free. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Abby Morgan at the Extension office at 765-364-6363 or email asweet@purdue.edu.
